Taco night is special at my house. I love gathering with family and friends. We laugh and enjoy the smells from the kitchen.
Recently, I found a recipe for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. It made me think of crispy shrimp in spicy sauce. I wanted to make these tacos for my guests.
When the shrimp were golden and the sauce was ready, I couldn’t wait. These tacos were a hit, adding to our fun night. Let’s dive into making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos together.
What are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a tasty mix. They have crispy shrimp in a creamy, spicy sauce. This dish started at Bonefish Grill and is now a taco delight.
The shrimp are coated in cornstarch and seasoned flour. They’re topped with coleslaw and homemade pico de gallo. All this is wrapped in soft corn tortillas.
Each bite is full of flavor and good for you. They have about 196 calories and important nutrients. The sauce is creamy and spicy, making every bite special.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
To make tasty shrimp tacos, you need the right stuff. You’ll want fresh parts that mix well. Here’s what you need for this yummy dish.
Essential Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 corn tortillas
- ½ cup light mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1 cup cornstarch (for breading)
- 1 cup coleslaw mix, made with shredded cabbage, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper
These things make a great dish that’s loved by all. The mix of crunchy shrimp and cool slaw makes each bite special.
Substitutions and Variations
Want to try something new in your shrimp tacos? Here are some ideas:
- Use flour tortillas for a softer feel.
- Try Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter taste.
- Swap shrimp for chicken or fish for a different twist.
- Add avocado, lime, or radishes for extra flavor and crunch.
Adjust the sriracha to make your tacos spicier or milder. This way, you can make a dish that’s just right for you.
Healthier Homemade Version of Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Making bang bang shrimp tacos at home is a great way to make them healthier. I change ingredients to keep the taste good but make them better for you. This way, I can make tacos that are good for everyone.
Lower Calorie Alternatives
Choosing lighter ingredients is important for healthier tacos. For example, using lighter sauces instead of heavy ones cuts down calories. I use light mayo for the coleslaw, which lowers calories a lot.
This change makes each taco about 467 calories, down from over 1070 in restaurants.
Guilt-Free Ingredients
Using avocado oil to fry shrimp is a healthier choice. It adds flavor without extra guilt. Agave nectar is a sweetener that’s lower in calories than sugar.
Adding fresh veggies as toppings makes the dish taste better and is more nutritious. Here’s what this healthier version might look like:
| Ingredient | Traditional Version (per serving) | Healthier Version (per serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 1070 | 467 |
| Total Fat | 45g | 15g |
| Protein | 20g | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 85g | 41g |
These changes make the tacos healthier and just as tasty. Making them at home lets me pick ingredients that are good for me. Eating well doesn’t mean giving up flavor.
The Perfect Shrimp for Tacos
Choosing the right shrimp is key for the best bang bang shrimp tacos. Use one pound of large shrimp, about 21-25 count per pound. This size is perfect for flavor and texture.
Make sure the shrimp are peeled, deveined, and tails off. Fresh shrimp taste better than frozen ones. Marinate them in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes before frying.
Use cornstarch for the coating. It makes the shrimp crispy after frying. Start with one cup of cornstarch, but adjust as needed.
Fry the shrimp in hot vegetable oil, between 365 and 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Getting the shrimp just right is important for the best tacos.
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Step-by-Step
Let’s dive into making delicious bang bang shrimp tacos. This recipe is quick and easy. It makes tasty tacos that everyone will love. Follow these steps for a foolproof method that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Preparing the Shrimp
I start by marinating the shrimp in a mix of buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt for about 20 minutes. This makes the shrimp taste better and be tender. After marinating, I dredge each shrimp in cornstarch. I make sure to tap off the excess to get that crispy texture during frying.
Making the Bang Bang Sauce
Making the bang bang sauce is easy. I mix ¼ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of Thai sweet chili sauce, and a splash of sriracha in a bowl. This mix gives the sauce its creamy and spicy flavor. For more heat, adjust the sriracha to your liking.
Assembling Your Tacos
To warm the tortillas, I heat them for about 30 seconds. This makes them soft and ready to fill. I put coleslaw in each tortilla for a crunchy base. Then, I add crispy shrimp and drizzle with bang bang sauce.
For freshness, I add chopped cilantro and sliced green onions. Jalapeños can add an extra zing to these tacos.
Tips for Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
For crispy bang bang shrimp tacos, a few tips help a lot. Keep the oil at 350°F while frying. This makes the shrimp cook fast and the coating crispy.
Fry the shrimp in small batches. Too many in the pan can lower the oil temperature. This makes the shrimp greasy. Fry 7 to 8 shrimp at a time to keep the heat right.
Let the breading set for a few minutes before frying. This makes it crunchier. Soak the shrimp in buttermilk first. It helps the coating stick better.
Use flour and cornstarch in your breading for extra crispiness. A mix of 1 ½ cups flour to ½ cup cornstarch works well. Or, use frozen breaded shrimp for a quick air-fry at 400°F for 8 minutes.
Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
I love to make my Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos special. I add yummy side dishes and cool drinks. Here are some great ideas to make your meal better.
Best Side Dishes
Side dishes can make the tacos even better. My top picks are:
- Tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole
- Cowboy coleslaw for a crunchy bite
- Spanish rice for extra flavor
- Jicama fries for a light snack
Perfect Pairing Drinks
Drinks can really bring out the taco flavors. Try these:
- Margaritas for a fun twist
- Mojitos for a cool drink
- Light beer for a simple choice
Storage and Reheating Tips
After enjoying your delicious bang bang shrimp tacos, you might have leftovers. Storing them right is key to enjoying those flavors later. Here are some helpful tips for storing and reheating shrimp tacos.
Storing Leftover Shrimp
For storing leftover shrimp, I use an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for up to three days in the fridge. I keep the coleslaw and tortillas separate from the shrimp.
This helps keep their textures and flavors good. They taste great on the first day and later too.
Reheating Techniques
When reheating shrimp tacos, avoid the sauce first. I microwave the shrimp for 1-2 minutes until warm. Then, I add the sauce and toppings fresh.
Or, I can reheat the shrimp in an oven at 200°F for 15 minutes. This keeps the shrimp crispy, which is a big plus!
Variations on Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Trying different bang bang shrimp tacos is fun. I like to change this dish to fit what people like. For example, I make a taco salad instead of using tortillas.
This salad has greens, black beans, and cheese. It’s a lighter meal but keeps the bang bang flavor.
Changing the protein is another fun thing to do. I try grilled fish or crispy tofu. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish in their own way.
Adding new toppings can make the tacos even better. Fresh pineapple salsa or mango chutney add sweetness. Pickled red onions or jalapeños add a spicy kick.
There are so many ways to make bang bang shrimp tacos. You can use what’s in season or what you like. It’s a great way to find new favorite dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe
The bang bang shrimp tacos are a hit because of their mix of tastes. You get savory, sweet, and spicy all in one bite. The crispy shrimp and creamy sauce go great with crunchy cabbage and fresh pico de gallo.
This mix makes every bite exciting. The lime adds a tangy touch, while the sauce brings a creamy sweetness. It’s a flavor combo that makes me want more.
Flavor Profile
The dish’s flavors come together beautifully. The shrimp is crunchy and a bit spicy from Frank’s Hot Sauce. This spice is balanced by the sweet Thai sweet chili sauce.
The cabbage and pico de gallo add a fresh taste. They make the dish even more enjoyable to eat.
Versatility in Serving
These tacos are perfect for any event. They’re great for a casual dinner, a party with friends, or a taco night. They’re easy to make, so you can serve them without stress.
You can serve them in many ways. Try adding fresh herbs or serving with chips and guacamole. These extras make the tacos even better.
| Nutrition Information | Per Serving | Total Recipe |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 868 kcal | 3472 kcal |
| Total Fat | 2g | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.3g | 1.2g |
| Protein | 5g | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g | 140g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6g | 24g |
| Total Sugars | 3g | 12g |
| Sodium | 44mg | 176mg |
More Delicious Taco Recipes You Should Try
If you loved making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, try other tasty taco recipes. They offer different flavors and textures. They’re perfect for when you want more tacos.
Spicy Shrimp Tacos
This spicy shrimp taco recipe is a hit. It has grilled or sautéed shrimp with a spicy rub. Add a zesty lime crema and fresh veggies for a fiery meal.
It’s quick to make, great for busy nights. Use small street-sized corn tortillas. It’s perfect for Taco Tuesdays!
Fish Tacos
Try this delicious fish taco recipe for a change. It has grilled or battered fish, creamy sauce, and fresh salsa. Crunchy cabbage adds texture and makes it lighter.
Serve it with small tortillas. It’s a refreshing twist for taco night.
| Recipe | Main Ingredients | Preparation Time | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spicy Shrimp Tacos | Jumbo shrimp, lime crema, fresh veggies | Less than 30 minutes | Approximately 467 calories |
| Fish Tacos | Battered/grilled fish, creamy sauce, salsa | 30 minutes | Varies by preparation |
Final Thoughts on Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
As I finish my journey with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, it’s clear they’re a hit. They let us enjoy a favorite dish at home. With creamy mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and cooked shrimp, each bite is full of flavor.
The slaw adds a crunchy texture that goes well with the shrimp. Making a healthier version without losing taste is great. Plus, they’re ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for any time.
I think everyone should try making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. They’re great for a quick meal or to impress guests. So, get your ingredients ready and make this tasty dish at home!
